About the Colorado DMV written test
The Colorado knowledge test (often searched as the Colorado permit test) checks that new drivers understand road signs, traffic laws and safe driving habits before getting a learner's permit. The questions come from the official Colorado driver handbook published by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles.
Colorado applicants study the official Colorado Driver Handbook, which also has a 30-question practice quiz on the DMV site and in the myColorado app. First-time drivers start with a permit, and minors follow a graduated licensing program.
Colorado permit test quick facts
- Minimum permit age
- You must be at least 15 years old to get a Colorado learner's permit.
- Vision screening
- A vision test is given at your appointment; bring glasses or contacts if you use them.
- Permit fee
- A $15.40 state fee applies to each driving test retake, in addition to regular testing fees.
- Adult BAC limit
- 0.05% is DWAI and over 0.08% is DUI for drivers 21+; a BAC over 0.02% can bring revocation under 21; over 0.04% for CDL drivers.
- Seat belt law
- The driver, front-seat passengers and children under 16 must wear seat belts.
Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles before you test.
What Colorado drivers should know
- Residential speed limit is 30 mph and business districts are 25 mph unless posted.
- Give bicyclists at least 3 feet of clearance when passing.
- Stop at least 20 feet from a school bus with flashing red lights.
- Minors hold a permit 12 months and log 50 hours, 10 at night.
- Do not park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or 30 feet of a stop sign.
Topics covered in our Colorado practice tests
- Road signs and signals: shapes, colors, pavement markings and traffic lights.
- Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed, turns, passing, parking and school zones.
- Safe driving: following distance, night and weather driving, distractions and emergencies.
- Alcohol and drugs: impaired driving, BAC and penalties.
- Sharing the road: pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and large trucks.
How to pass the Colorado permit test
- Read the official Colorado driver handbook, paying close attention to numbers (distances, speeds, BAC limits).
- Take Practice Test 1 in study mode and read every explanation.
- Work through Tests 2 to 5, then the topic tests for your weakest areas.
- Use the Exam Simulator and aim for 80% or higher on several attempts in a row.
- Bring the documents your state requires and book your test with the DMV.